United States (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Andy Byford, known as New York City’s “Train Daddy,” is leading the ambitious $7 billion Penn Station Transformation project, which is set to begin construction by late 2027. The federal government and Amtrak continue to make steady progress on plans to overhaul America’s busiest train station into a modern, world-class transit hub.
Andy Byford’s Role in Penn Station’s Redevelopment
As reported by Jim Melvin of City & State New York, Andy Byford, appointed as special advisor to the Amtrak Board in spring 2025, is spearheading the redevelopment of Penn Station. Byford, known for his senior leadership roles in London, Sydney, Toronto, and New York’s transit systems, brings a wealth of experience to the complex project.
Byford described the project as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform one of the country’s most congested and ageing transport hubs into a functional and aesthetically improved facility. He has actively engaged key stakeholders, including Madison Square Garden’s owner James Dolan and Vornado Realty Trust’s CEO Steve Roth, who control properties around the station. Byford emphasises collaboration to reconcile competing visions for the site .
Project Funding and Timeline
The U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced in August 2025 that construction is scheduled to begin at the end of 2027. The federal government provided nearly $43 million in grant funding to jumpstart the project and solicit a master developer to oversee the transformation, facilitating a fast-tracked schedule.
Estimated at $7 billion, the overhaul will replace the existing station with a 250,000 square-foot, single-level facility featuring new amenities, retail outlets, and mixed-income housing. The transformation aims to restore Penn Station’s standing as a premier transit hub befitting New York City’s scale and importance.
Addressing Penn Station’s Challenges
Current Penn Station’s infrastructure is widely regarded as inadequate characterised by cramped, gloomy, and inefficient spaces. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy described the station’s “bleak and dirty architecture” and “unnavigable hallways,” underscoring the urgency for redevelopment.
Byford has committed to creating a world-class transit hub that is beautiful, safe, and welcoming, offering passengers an with vastly improved wayfinding, natural light, and family-friendly amenities.
The project aims to alleviate chronic congestion by transforming Penn Station into a through-running hub within a larger, regionally integrated commuter rail system. This contrasts with today’s terminal layout, which severely limits operational efficiency and rider experience.
Stakeholder Engagement and Vision
Byford has pledged transparency and inclusivity in the redevelopment process. He believes in hearing all voices from local communities to corporate stakeholders and transit users—to shape a station that balances architectural ambition with practical needs.
Despite speculation about removing Madison Square Garden, which sits atop the station, the arena is likely to remain, with plans focusing on improving the station underneath and around it. Byford stressed that any design will need to accommodate future passenger growth while respecting existing urban fabric.
Broader Impact on Regional Transit
The Penn Station overhaul is a cornerstone for improving transit infrastructure not only for New York but the entire Northeast Corridor. As Amtrak owns the station but many users rely on New Jersey Transit and the Long Island Rail Road, coordination between agencies is critical.
The transformation supports President Trump’s goal of “eliminating homelessness” and “eradicating crime” in the transit environment, aiming to create a safer, more welcoming space for commuters.
Next Steps and Future Outlook
With construction slated to kick off in late 2027, ongoing work includes finalising design plans, securing a master development team, and addressing financing details. Byford and Amtrak remain committed to a transparent timeline, sharing progress regularly with the public and stakeholders.
Byford’s track record and current momentum have raised hopes that this long-awaited Penn Station renaissance will materialise successfully, remedying decades of neglect and delivering a transit hub worthy of New York City’s stature.
